Milwaukee Public Schools evaluates future of Italian Immersion program amidst community concerns

In a packed room filled with passionate voices, the Milwaukee School District's Regular Monthly Board Meeting on May 29, 2025, turned its focus to the future of the Italian Immersion program at Victory School. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as board members and community advocates gathered to discuss the program's sustainability amid declining enrollment.

Deputy Superintendent Eduardo Galvan opened the discussion, emphasizing the district's commitment to diverse learning opportunities, including language immersion. He revealed that the Italian Immersion School currently serves just 24 students from kindergarten through fifth grade, supported by two dedicated teachers. Galvan highlighted the need for growth to ensure the program's longevity, stating, "We must grow this program in order to sustain it for years to come."

Community member Gina Jorgensen passionately defended the program, sharing her family's personal connection and the challenges they faced as the immersion model shifted to partial instruction. "By the time she left in fifth grade, she barely knew Italian," Jorgensen lamented, urging the board to consider relocating the program to a more central location to attract more students. Her testimony resonated with many in attendance, who echoed her concerns about the potential shift to a world language model, which they believe would dilute the immersion experience.

Sandy Winard, president of the Italian Community Center, also voiced her concerns, advocating for equity in language education. "We ask for equity. We ask to be treated as much as the German or the French immersion school," she stated, underscoring the cultural significance of the Italian language in Milwaukee.

As the meeting progressed, several other community members, including current students and educators, shared their experiences and the importance of maintaining a robust Italian Immersion program. They argued that immersion not only fosters language skills but also cultivates cultural awareness and empathy among students.

The board's decision on the future of the Italian Immersion program remains uncertain, but the voices of the community have made it clear: they are committed to ensuring that this unique educational opportunity continues to thrive. As the meeting concluded, the call for action echoed in the room, leaving attendees hopeful for a resolution that honors the rich cultural heritage of the Italian community in Milwaukee.